Texting is a temptation every time we get behind the wheel in Cartersville. But all drivers have a legal duty to avoid it. Was another driving texting when they caused your accident? You might be entitled to financial recovery. A Cartersville texting while driving accident lawyer can help.
The law prohibits Cartersville residents from texting while driving. Sadly, too many people still do it. Texting accidents can cause severe injuries and enormous costs. If you did not cause your crash, you shouldn’t have to pay.
John Foy & Associates can assist you. We have been helping accident victims for over 20 years. Plus, we do not charge a fee unless you recover money. To get a FREE consultation, call (404) 400-4000, or contact us online.
Texting While Driving Is Very Risky in Cartersville
A survey from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) found the following:
- Twenty percent of 18- to 20-year-old drivers said that texting doesn’t impact their driving.
- Almost 30% of 21- to 34-year-old drivers said texting does not affect their driving.
Many drivers are clearly in denial about the dangers of texting. In reality, about 27% of all car accidents involve cell phones, according to the National Safety Council (NSC).
Distracted driving facts from the NHTSA show that:
- In 2018, 2,841 people died in auto accidents with distracted drivers.
- Texting prevents you from putting your whole attention on the road. It requires physical, visual, and mental focus.
- When traveling at 55 miles per hour (mph), texting is like driving the length of a football field with your eyes closed.
According to the NSC, young drivers have the highest rate of texting-related accidents. But drivers of any age can engage in texting while driving.
If someone causes an accident because of texting, they should be held liable. As the injured person, you have a right to compensation. Talk to a Cartersville lawyer today about filing an injury claim.
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Other Types of Distracted Driving
Texting while driving is one of the most hazardous choices. However, there are other dangerous forms of distracted driving.
Besides texting, drivers should avoid the following while driving:
- Eating or drinking
- Getting distracted by passengers
- Taking a phone call (without a hands-free headset)
- Checking email or social media
- Daydreaming without paying attention to the road
- Tending to children or pets in the car
- Putting on makeup or grooming
- Reaching to change the radio or music
- Watching or filming videos
- Turning to look at roadside accidents
Distracted driving is a form of negligence. When a driver is negligent, it means they lack carefulness. A negligent driver is responsible for the costs of an accident they cause.
Cartersville Laws for Texting While Driving
Texting while driving has been illegal in Cartersville since July 2018. Drivers cannot do anything that distracts them from safe driving.
According to the law, drivers should not:
- Physically hold a phone in their hand while driving. That includes using any body part to support the phone.
- Read, send, or write any text communication while driving. That includes emails, text messages, and social media posts.
- Watch a video while driving unless it’s for GPS navigation.
- Film or record video while driving unless it’s continuous dashcam footage.
- Mess with music streaming while driving. Drivers can play music if they have started it before moving the car.
A driver can only do the above actions if parked or not driving. It’s not enough to wait until you’re at a stop sign or red light. If a driver says they were only texting at a red light, it’s still illegal.
Young drivers with a learner’s permit or class D license cannot use any wireless communication while driving. That communication includes hands-free calls or texts. Commercial drivers must use hands-free devices if they talk on the phone while driving.
You Can File a Claim After a Texting While Driving Accident
If a texting driver caused your accident, you can file an injury claim. The at-fault driver’s insurance company should pay for your damages. To have a successful claim, you’ll need to prove that:
- The texting driver owes you a duty of care.
- The driver failed in their duty.
- The driver’s negligence caused your accident and injuries.
You will also need proof of your damages. Save all medical records, receipts, and other documentation. You can include these in your claim. If you need help gathering evidence of your costs, talk to your lawyer.
How a Texting While Driving Accident Lawyer Supports You
To legally protect yourself, contact a Cartersville texting while driving lawyer. Your lawyer can guide you through the essential legal process. They will know how to:
- Show that the other driver was negligent.
- Gather evidence from the accident.
- Compile proof of your damages.
- Determine the type of settlement you deserve.
- Deal with the insurance company.
Insurance companies care most about their money. The insurer will look for ways to pay you less. Don’t forget that insurance companies are not on your side.
Your lawyer will communicate with the insurance company for you. They will also work to negotiate a fair settlement. At the very least, contact a lawyer to ensure you’re on the right track.
Damages You Can Collect for a Texting While Driving Accident
You might be entitled to 100% recovery for your damages. “Damages” are losses from your accident. Your physical injuries must result in your costs.
Examples of personal injury damages include:
- Medical bills
- Prescription medications
- Lost wages
- Lost earning capacity
- Vehicle damage
- Pain and suffering
Talk to a Cartersville Texting While Driving Accident Lawyer for Free Today
John Foy & Associates has been fighting for injury victims for over 20 years. We can help you build a strong case and fight for full compensation.
Our lawyers do not charge a fee unless we win your case. You can get legal help without worrying about upfront costs. Plus, your consultation is FREE.
To schedule your FREE consultation, call us at (404) 400-4000 or contact us online. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to take your call.
404-400-4000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form